Body Art

Body Art, as defined in NEHA’s Body Art Model Code, means body piercing, tattooing, branding, scarification, or cosmetic tattooing. Environmental health professionals inspect and regulate body art establishments.

We advance the work of environmental health practitioners and the body art industry through the following initiatives and resources:

Upcoming Events

2026 Applications Open for the NEHA Body Art Committee

  • Are you experienced in body art? Are you a thought leader in your community? Join fellow body art experts in developing resources to support common-sense regulations and effective inspections to protect public health.
  • We are accepting applications for new committee members to serve a two-year term. Review our NEHA Body Art Committee Guidance to see if this is the right fit for you.
  • Reach out to bodyart@neha.org with any questions. Applications accepted through September 30, 2026.

Review Committee RequirementsApply Now

Quarterly Body Art Newsletter: Featured Articles

2025: A Year of Research

This year’s body art research highlights surgical planning around tattoos, the role of artists in skin health, and safe practices, along with the occasional humorous or unusual case.

Ink That Heals: Stories of Love, Loss and Gratitude

Tattoos are more than ink. They carry love, memory, and gratitude, reminding artists of the deep meaning and impact their work has in clients’ lives.

Differences Between Cosmetic and Traditional Tattoo Inks

Discover the insights behind cosmetic tattoo inks, from iron oxides to carbon and hybrid pigments, and learn how to keep colors vibrant and clients happy.